There’s nothing quite as indulgent as Gordon Ramsay chocolate cake. By combining the richness of chocolate with the creamy texture of cream cheese, this cake transforms into an irresistible dessert. Inspired by Ramsay’s culinary expertise, this Gordon Ramsay chocolate cake brings a luxurious twist to a classic treat, delivering a moist, flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
The result is a dessert that’s moist, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a fan of baking or just looking for a show-stopping recipe to wow your guests, this Gordon Ramsay chocolate cake offers the perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and decadence. What makes it even better? It’s surprisingly easy to make at home, with just a handful of steps and a few kitchen staples.
This recipe is your ticket to creating a Gordon Ramsay chocolate cake in your own kitchen. So, preheat your oven, grab your mixing bowl, and let’s dive into the art of baking this incredible chocolate cream cheese pound cake!
Table of contents
Ingredients for Gordon Ramsay’s Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Essential Ingredients for Gordon Ramsay’s Chocolate Cake
To create this rich and decadent pound cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Cream Cheese: Adds a tangy flavor and ensures a moist, velvety texture.
- Cocoa Powder: Provides the deep chocolate flavor; opt for unsweetened and high-quality cocoa.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter, softened at room temperature, for a creamy and smooth batter.
- Granulated Sugar: For sweetness and structure in the cake.
- Eggs: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the cake; sifted for a smoother batter.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and complements the chocolate.
- Baking Powder: A small amount to help the cake rise slightly.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor profile.
Tips for Choosing the Best Ingredients for a Chocolate Pound Cake
- Cocoa Powder: Invest in premium unsweetened cocoa powder, such as Dutch-processed, for a more intense chocolate flavor.
- Butter: Ensure your butter is fresh and of high quality for a better taste and consistency.
- Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese works best for a rich and creamy texture. Avoid using low-fat versions, as they may affect the cake’s moisture.
- Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract instead of artificial flavoring to enhance the overall flavor profile of the cake.
Substitutions and Variations for Gordon Ramsay’s Pound Cake
- Cream Cheese Alternatives: Swap cream cheese with mascarpone for a milder flavor or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
- Chocolate Chips: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the batter for extra bursts of chocolate.
- Flavor Twists: Mix in a teaspoon of instant espresso powder for a mocha flavor, or add orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- Toppings: Finish the cake with a drizzle of chocolate ganache or a dusting of powdered sugar for added flair.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Gordon Ramsay Chocolate Cake

Preparation and Preheating for Gordon Ramsay Chocolate Cake
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) to ensure even baking.
- Prepare your loaf pan by greasing it with butter or non-stick spray, then line it with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the cake once baked.
- Measure and sift your dry ingredients, such as flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth batter.
Mixing the Batter for Gordon Ramsay Chocolate Cake
- Cream the Butter, Sugar, and Cream Cheese:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar with a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes). This step ensures a moist and tender crumb.
- Add the Eggs:
- Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This prevents the batter from splitting and creates a smooth consistency.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients (flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt) to the wet mixture, alternating with a small amount of milk (if the batter feels too thick). Mix on low speed until just combined—avoid overmixing.
- Add Vanilla Extract:
- Stir in the vanilla extract for added depth of flavor. If desired, fold in chocolate chips or nuts at this stage for extra texture.
Baking Gordon Ramsay Chocolate Cake
- Pour the Batter into the Pan:
- Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
- Bake:
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55–65 minutes. Check the cake around the 50-minute mark.
- Test for Doneness:
- Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs, the cake is done.
- Avoid Overbaking:
- Overbaking can dry out the cake, so keep a close eye during the last few minutes of baking.
Cooling and Serving Gordon Ramsay Chocolate Cake
- Cool in the Pan:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes to set and avoid breaking when removed.
- Transfer to a Wire Rack:
- Carefully lift the cake out using the parchment paper and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slicing and Serving:
- Use a sharp knife to slice the cake into even pieces. Serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a drizzle of chocolate ganache for a touch of elegance.
- Optional Pairings:
- Pair the cake with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate treat.
Expert Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Pound Cake

Avoid Common Baking Mistakes
- Overmixing the Batter:
Overmixing can lead to a dense and heavy cake. Mix the batter until the ingredients are just combined, and stop as soon as there are no visible streaks of flour. This ensures a light, tender crumb. - Incorrect Oven Temperature:
An oven that’s too hot or too cool can affect the cake’s texture. Always use an oven thermometer to check your oven’s accuracy. If your oven runs hot, reduce the temperature by 10–15 degrees Fahrenheit. - Not Preheating the Oven:
Preheating the oven is essential for even baking. Always give your oven enough time to reach the desired temperature before putting the cake inside. - Skipping the Parchment Paper:
While greasing the pan is important, lining it with parchment paper ensures your cake comes out without sticking, especially in the corners.
How to Achieve a Moist Texture
- Use Room-Temperature Ingredients:
For the best texture, bring your butter, cream cheese, and eggs to room temperature before mixing. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to curdle, preventing the cake from rising properly. - Measure Accurately:
Baking is all about precision. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients like flour and cocoa powder to ensure you’re adding the correct amount. Too much flour can result in a dry cake. - Incorporate Sour Cream or Yogurt:
Adding a bit of sour cream or plain yogurt can boost moisture and tenderness. They help create a soft crumb while balancing the richness of the cream cheese and chocolate. - Don’t Overbake:
Keep a close eye on your cake towards the end of the baking time. A slightly underbaked cake (that is, one with a moist crumb) is far better than one that’s overbaked and dry.
Adding Extra Flavors
- Chocolate Chips:
Stir in a handful of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for added chocolatey goodness. They’ll melt into the cake, creating pockets of extra-rich flavor throughout. - Nuts:
Walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts pair wonderfully with chocolate and cream cheese. Lightly toast them before adding to the batter to enhance their flavor and crunch. - Chocolate Glaze:
For a show-stopping finish, drizzle a homemade chocolate glaze over the cooled cake. To make the glaze, melt chocolate with a little cream or butter, then pour it over the cake for a glossy, indulgent topping. - Spices and Flavor Enhancers:
Add a pinch of cinnamon or instant coffee powder to enhance the chocolate flavor. A dash of vanilla extract or orange zest can also create a delightful aromatic contrast to the rich cake.

Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake Gordon Ramsay Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz 225g cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup 2 sticks / 226g unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups 300g granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1 ¾ cups 220g all-purpose flour, sifted
- ½ cup 50g unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup 120ml whole milk
Optional for extra flavor and texture:
- ½ cup 90g semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder to enhance the chocolate flavor
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Grease a loaf pan (9×5 inches) with butter or non-stick spray, and line it with parchment paper to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
Sift Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer at medium speed. Beat until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Add Eggs One at a Time
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures a smooth and homogenous batter.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Milk
- Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the butter and egg mixture, alternating with milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Add Vanilla and Optional Ingredients
- Stir in vanilla extract and, if desired, fold in chocolate chips or a spoonful of instant coffee powder for an enhanced mocha flavor.
Transfer Batter to Pan
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few crumbs attached. Start checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Cool the Cake
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully remove it from the pan using the parchment paper and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the cake using a sharp knife. You can serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a drizzle of chocolate ganache or whipped cream.
Notes
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugars: 28g
- Protein: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 180mg
Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe
Can I Freeze Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake?
Yes, you can freeze this pound cake to enjoy later! Here’s how:
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool entirely on a wire rack before freezing.
- Wrap Properly: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. For individual servings, slice the cake and wrap each slice separately.
- Store in a Freezer Bag: Place the wrapped cake or slices into a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Freezing Duration: The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight. Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or let them come to room temperature before serving.
How Long Does This Cake Stay Fresh?
Stored properly, this pound cake stays fresh and moist:
- At Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s wrapped well to prevent it from drying out.
- In the Refrigerator: Store it in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
To retain its moisture, avoid slicing the cake until you’re ready to serve. The whole cake stays fresher longer than pre-sliced portions.
What Makes Gordon Ramsay’s Version Unique?
Gordon Ramsay’s recipes are known for their attention to detail and balance of flavors, and this pound cake is no exception. What sets his version apart:
- Perfect Texture: The combination of cream cheese and butter ensures a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Deep, Rich Flavor: High-quality cocoa and a hint of vanilla create a sophisticated chocolate flavor that’s neither overly sweet nor bitter.
- Simplicity with Elegance: While the recipe is straightforward enough for home bakers, the results feel gourmet, making it ideal for special occasions or impressing guests.
Can I Use a Bundt Pan Instead of a Loaf Pan?
Yes, you can use a Bundt pan for this recipe, but there are a few adjustments to keep in mind:
- Pan Preparation: Grease the Bundt pan thoroughly, including all crevices, and dust it lightly with cocoa powder or flour to prevent sticking.
- Baking Time: Since Bundt pans hold more batter and distribute heat differently, you may need to extend the baking time by 5–10 minutes. Start checking for doneness around the 60-minute mark.
- Visual Appeal: A Bundt pan gives the cake a more decorative shape, making it perfect for entertaining or holidays. You can enhance its presentation by drizzling chocolate glaze over the ridges or dusting it with powdered sugar.
Using a Bundt pan won’t alter the flavor but will create a different aesthetic and slightly different texture due to the increased surface area.
Closing Section
This Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake is the perfect balance of simplicity and decadence. With its moist texture, rich chocolate flavor, and creamy tang from the cream cheese, it’s a dessert that feels indulgent yet is easy enough for any home baker to master. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.
We encourage you to give this recipe a try in your own kitchen and experience the magic of Gordon Ramsay’s inspired creation. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
If you try this recipe, we’d love to hear about your experience! Share your results in the comments below did you add any fun twists or toppings? Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family so they can join in on the deliciousness. And if you’re hungry for more recipes like this one, check out our other posts for more baking inspiration.